New courses and bumper enrolments for Cairns SchoolTech

Queensland’s specialist secondary school trade training program in Cairns, SchoolTech, has announced the introduction of new courses in non-traditional trade areas from next year.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said following the successful first year of operation, SchoolTech’s course offering would be expanded and its 2009 intake doubled to 100 students.

“This year 50 Woree State High School students studied traditional trade school-based apprenticeships and traineeships in diesel fitting, construction, metal fabrication or electrical trades through SchoolTech,” Mr Welford said.

“With 98 per cent attendance it’s clear the SchoolTech model works for students.

“The unique program sees year 11 and 12 students taught by Education Queensland and TAFE teachers, with classes based at the Cairns campus of the Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE.

“The students gain TAFE qualifications and a Queensland Certificate of Education.

“Cairns Regional Group Training then helps to place the students with local employers.

“This initiative between Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE and Woree State High School is providing a fresh approach to school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.

“Students have a chance to participate in work placement within industry to equip them for the modern day workforce. Also, all teachers are on the one campus and offer every support throughout the apprenticeship.

“Next year we expect a total of 150 students to be enrolled at SchoolTech as a result of calls from industry and the greater variety of courses on offer.

“The new 100 students will be able to select from the traditional trades and the new courses in cookery, childcare, Indigenous health and marine.”

The program reflects the aim of the Queensland Skills Plan 2008 to assist youth to move into further education, training and employment while providing skills necessary to enter the workforce.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 0419 734 985